Cookies

We want you to get the most out of using this website, which is why we and our partners use cookies. By continuing to use this site, you are agreeing to receive these cookies. You can find out more about how we use cookies here.

Cumbria police's firearms and roads units under review

Cumbria's roads and firearms police squads are under review as part of overall measures to cut costs at the county force.

The constabulary is looking at how it polices the roads and provides an armed response for emergencies as it aims to tighten its belt because of budget pressures.

Officers have stressed the review features “a number of options” and is in its early stages, adding nothing has been rubber-stamped.

Departments across the constabulary have come under the spotlight as part of ongoing efforts to balance the books in tighter financial times.

Roads and firearms officers are based at a number of sites around the county, including the force’s Carleton Hall headquarters and in west Cumbria.

A police spokeswoman said: “Cumbria Constabulary is reviewing how it polices the roads and provides firearms response to keep people in Cumbria safe as part of the on-going review programme.

“The constabulary is looking at the resources and deployment of its specialist units to make sure they are efficient and effective, ensuring the safety and quality of life for the people of Cumbria at a time when efficiencies have to be made. We are looking at a number of options within the review, which is in its early stages, with no decisions made at the moment.

“We will be communicating and consulting with affected staff as part of the review process.”

Officer numbers have fallen, civilian posts have been axed and some stations closed after senior policing figures were set the task of saving millions of pounds.

Police and community support officer numbers are set to stay at 1,134 and 95 respectively for two years.

Have your say

i think they could save a huge amount of money if they change the type of car they use when they are due for replacement to be honest you do see a lot of v expensive volvo estates & landrovers,there are cars out there a lot cheaper and just as capable

Posted by djr on
11 February 2013 at 12:24

Dave, I think your numbers are a bit optimistic! All these cut backs are ridiculous, we should be having more officers, not less!